Rivers and Mediterranean Cruising

Starting with APT’s inimitable 15 day Magnificent Europe cruise, wind your way from Amsterdam to Budapest before joining the prestigious Holland America Line in Venice for a 12 night discovery of the Mediterranean coast, finishing in Barcelona.

ms Sound of Music • ms Zuiderdam • Amsterdam • Cologne • Vienna • Bratislava • Budapest • Venice • Dubrovnik • Greek Islands • Naples • Rome • Florence • Barcelona

• 15 day Magnificent Europe cruise on ms Sound of Music
• 12 nights aboard Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam

Itinerary

Day 1. Arrive Amsterdam.
Be met at the airport and transferred to your river ship, conveniently moored just a skip away from the city centre. Tonight you’ll have the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers at a Welcome Cocktail Reception. After dinner, settle in to your spacious suite, relax in one of the on-board lounges or take a walk into town to experience the vibrant nightlife of the Dutch capital.
Stay: 14 nights aboard APT’s ms Sound of Music
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Day 2. Amsterdam, Freedom of Choice Touring.
After breakfast, choose your day’s touring with our unique Freedom of Choice concept. Perhaps embark on a guided canal boat cruise through the heart of the city and admire the stunning architecture as you sail in a thoughtfully designed glass-top boat past beautiful 17th century homes, charming churches and 16th century merchant houses. Alternatively, choose to visit the famous Van Gogh Museum, boasting the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh paintings, for a first-hand appreciation of the Dutchman’s artistic genius. Enjoy some time at leisure in this pleasant city, before we depart Amsterdam after lunch, setting sail towards the German city of Cologne. Later tonight, you’ll be a guest at the Captain’s Gala Welcome Dinner.
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Day 3. Cologne – Koblenz.
CRUISING THE LEGENDARY RHINE This morning your ship arrives in Cologne where we dock for a morning walking tour through the old section of Germany’s fourth largest city, including a visit to the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral. As you enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board, the ship continues sailing along the Rhine past quaint villages and dramatic landscapes to 2,000-year-old Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and the Moselle rivers and set in one of Ger-many’s most important wine producing regions. The abundance of cultural monuments, historic buildings, cosy lanes, narrow alleyways and the relaxed atmosphere of its squares and river promenades make Koblenz a very welcoming destination. This evening following dinner, you’ll take a city walk right through the middle of this lovely town.
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Day 4. Mainz.
Today you’ll sail through the Rhine Gorge on what is regarded by many as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine. You’ll see the -massive Lorelei Rock, rising almost vertically to over 130 metres above the water level. German legend has it that here upon the rock, a siren named ‘Lorelei’ sat and bewitched the hearts of sailors with sweet sounding songs that lured them to their doom. Arriving in Mainz, disembark and enjoy a city tour. It was here that Gutenburg, famous for inventing the very first printing press, called home. With the remainder of the afternoon free for your own personal exploration, an entertaining Crew Show tonight concludes the day.
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Day 5. Miltenberg – Wertheim.
Arrive in Miltenberg and disembark for a refreshing morning walking tour of this picturesque Franconian town, revealing narrow cobblestone streets and gabled, half-timbered houses. Take a moment to shop for souvenirs before travelling to Wertheim, a pretty town strategically located where the Main and Tauber rivers meet just over 150 kilometers upstream from where the Main flows into the Rhine River. The time we spend here is an ideal introduction to a typical medieval village known for its glassworks, Franconian wine and friendly people. Witness an interesting local glass-blowing performance before re-boarding the ship, then relax while you cruise through the sunny valleys of the meandering Main.
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Day 6. Würzburg.
Surrounded by green sloping hills covered with vineyards, Würzburg is the capital of Lower Franconia and an important centre of wine and trade. During your tour here today see all the major sights, including the impressive Resi-dential Palace and get a glimpse of churches ranging in styles from Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque to Modern. This afternoon enjoy some time at leisure or take an optional excursion to medieval Rothenburg, a beautiful walled city on the Romantic Road that sits overlooking the Tauber River. After dinner, enjoy a medieval music performance as the ship cruises peacefully overnight to Bamberg.
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Day 7. Bamberg.
THE MAIN-DANUBE CANAL Completed in 1992, the Main-Danube Canal is a marvel of engineering, taking 32 years to build. It links the North Sea to the Black Sea and thus allows river ships to cruise all the way across Europe. After a morning of relaxation, your ship enters the Main-Danube Canal at Bamberg in the afternoon. A World Heritage-listed site, take a guided tour of Bamberg’s serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th century mansions. Unique to APT, visit a traditional Beer Haus and enjoy a local smokey beer on us before you travel back through the picturesque green countryside to rejoin the ship and continue sailing to Nuremberg, the capital of Franconia.
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Day 8. Nuremberg – Continental Divide, Freedom of Choice Touring.
This morning you’ll again have the choice of two different touring activities. Take a medieval tour of Nuremberg, visiting such attractions as the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and the Kaiserburg Fortress. Or perhaps immerse yourself in the history of World War II. The city played a pivotal role for the Nazi party and was thus systematically bombed by the British and US air forces during the war, going on to become the symbolic host to the infamous Nuremberg Trials. See the site of these trials, the Justice Palace where the War Crimes Tri-bunal sat in 1946 and other historic places. At lunch, continue along the canal and arrive at the highest point of your cruise, 435 metres above sea level, before descending through stairstep locks.
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Day 9. Regensburg.
Arrive in Regensburg today, located at the confluence of the Danube and Regen rivers and one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Here you’ll have the opportunity to see one of the oldest bridges crossing the Danube and take a guided tour of the city’s architectural highlights including the Old Town Hall, the World Heritage-listed city centre and the Porta Pretoria – gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Tonight, folklore entertainers perform on board.
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Day 10. Passau – Linz, Freedom of Choice Touring.
After breakfast today, arrive in Passau, known also as Drieflüssestadt (City of Three Rivers), as it is where the rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube. With our Freedom of Choice Touring, perhaps join a full day tour to Salzburg and its popular ‘Sound of Music’ sights including the Wedding Church, Mirabell Gardens and the Great Salzburg Festival Hall, before travelling by land and rejoining the ship in Linz. Alternatively, embark on a fascinating tour of historical Passau, including a trip to St Stephen’s Cathedral, an exemplary example of Italian Baroque architecture, and home to the world’s second largest church pipe organ. You’ll then take the scenic cruise from Passau into Austria and to Linz. After dinner, take an evening stroll through the town of Linz.
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Day 11. Melk – Dürnstein – Krems.
Cruise through the gorgeous Wachau Valley this morning and take a guided tour of Melk’s Benedictine Abbey, one of the world’s most famous monastic sites. It is located above the town of Melk on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube and has the rare distinction of surviving as an active Benedictine monastery continuously since its foundation. When it’s time to depart Melk, you may like to borrow one of the bicycles stored on board and take off on a leisurely ride on a flat path along the banks of the Danube from Melk to -Dürnstein. Otherwise, re-board your ship and continue by water to -Dürnstein for a walking tour through medieval cobblestone streets that reveal 16th century town houses and wine taverns. Here, high above town, lie the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, was -imprisoned in 1192. Afterwards, con-tinue sailing to Krems, centreof the Wachau wine industry.
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Day 12. Vienna, Freedom of Choice Touring.
Today you have a full day to savour the Baroque elegance of Vienna, with our two Freedom of Choice Touring options. The first, a guided sightseeing tour, includes a visit to Hofburg Imperial Palace, the Vienna Opera House, Ringstrasse and St Stephen’s Cathedral. The second option is to visit the Hundertwasser House, one of Vienna’s most visited buildings, featuring undulating floors, a roof covered with earth and grass and large trees growing inside the rooms, with limbs extending from windows. It was designed by, and contains the works of arguably the best-known Austrian artist of contemporary times, Friedensreich Hundertwasser, who famously called New Zealand home, and in fact designed their Koru Flag. This afternoon is at leisure, then tonight after dinner, explore the city or perhaps come along to an optional Mozart and Strauss concert.
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Day 13. Vienna – Bratislava.
Enjoy a morning in Vienna at leisure to perhaps stroll along the main shopping street, Kärntnerstrasse, and sample some of Vienna’s famous pastries. Otherwise, join an optional tour to the World Heritage-listed Schönbrunn Palace and its beautiful gardens. Later we cruise into Slovakia, and disembark the ship for an afternoon tour of the country’s capital, Bratislava which reveals to you the city’s major sights, including the Old Town Hall, Mirbach Palace and gothic St Martin’s Cathedral. From Bratislava Castle, you will marvel at the sweeping views across three countries – Slovakia, Austria and Hungary. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure in Bratislava, followed by an evening music performance on board.
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Day 14. Budapest, State Opera House Performance.
Arrive in Budapest, the romantic Hungarian capital spread over the Danube. Here you will disembark for a sightseeing tour including places such as 500-year-old Matthias Church, St Stephen’s Basilica, the distinctive Fisherman’s Bastion, the marvellous Royal Palace and historic Buda Castle, where you have views of Buda and Pest over both banks of the river. In the afternoon, APT also presents you with the exclusive opportunity to see a private music performance over a glass of champagne at the Hungarian State Opera House. Tonight, in keeping with the superb on-board entertainment, enjoy a Gala Fare-well Dinner with Gypsy violinists playing for you on board.
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Day 15. Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest.
Disembark Ship. Your river cruise ends after breakfast and you transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Two Night Stay: Budapest
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Day 16. Budapest, State Opera House Performance.
Enjoy the morning at leisure before we present the opportunity to see a private music performance over a glass of champagne at the Hungarian State Opera House
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Day 17. Budapest – Venice – Embark Cruise.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Venice (own expense). On arrival, board Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam for your 13 day Mediterranean Romance cruise.
Stay: 12 nights in an outside cabin aboard Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam
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Day 18. Venice (Italy).
Wake up for the first time aboard your luxurious ocean cruising vessel. Following breakfast, you have the bulk of the day to spend as you choose in beautiful Venice before your ship sets sail later in the afternoon. Perhaps take a romantic gondola ride, or tour the islands of Venice (own expense).
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Day 19. Dubrovnik.
Located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, World Heritage-listed Dubrovnik is a city bursting with diversity. Nearly 2km of surrounding medieval walls represent one of the strongest, and most beautiful, fort systems in Europe. Arriving here late morning, you might like to explore the city on your own, visiting such historical places as Sponza Palace, the 14th century Franciscan monastery, or perhaps take in the unbelievable city views offered from St John’s Fortress. Alternatively, there are a range of excursions offered, such as a tour through the Dubrovnik Riviera (own expense).
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Day 20. Corfu.
Your ship, having cruised quietly overnight, reaches the striking Greek island of Corfu early this morning. Here again, you can choose from a wide selection of optional shore excursions or perhaps venture off on your own and lose yourself in the Venetian old town or head north for some dramatic seascapes. The ship sails overnight to Argostoli.
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Day 21. Argostoli.
Today you’ll spend the first half of the day on the island of Cephalonia and the other half relaxing on board your Holland America Line ship. Dock at the island’s capital of Argostoli early this morning and absorb the activity of this vibrant waterfront town. Flattened by earthquakes in 1953, the town was rebuilt following the original layout. Today it comprises a wonderful fusion of old and new.
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Day 22. Santorini.
The better part of today is spent in the Aegean sunshine on the appealing Greek island of Santorini. The harbour here was created by a volcano in 1500 BC, a fact that is apparent today in the imposing cliffs rising around you from sea level. Embark on an optional shore excursion or explore at your own pace, but be certain to get a good vantage point at dusk, for it has been said that Santorini boasts the most spectacular sunsets on earth.
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Day 23. At Sea.
A day on the ms Zuiderdam at sea is truly an indulgent time. Meanwhile, your ship sails for Italy.
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Day 24. Catania, Sicily.
Back on land, we reach Catania in Sicily, an Italian island separated from the mainland by the sea and centuries of history. Perhaps take a drive to the one of the world’s most active volcanos, Mt Etna (own expense) or wander the city. There is much to see, such as the two Roman ampitheatres, Ursino Castle and other historical sites. Return to your ship and cruise to Naples.
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Day 25. Naples.
With its mild climate and stunning coastal setting, Naples has been a tourist destination since the times of the Roman Empire. With a full day ashore here, excursions on offer include a visit to the famous ruins of Pompeii, an expedition to the Isle of Capri or a trip to the quaint and uniquely Italian hill towns on the Amalfi Coast (own expense).

Day 26. Civitavecchia, Rome.
Civitavecchia is an ancient coastal town and also your gateway to the many wonders of Italy’s most iconic city – Rome, only 80 km away. Arriving in the morning, head straight to Rome and such well-known sites as the Vatican, St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and much more.
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Day 27. Livorno, Florence.
Dock in the canal-crossed port of Livorno, offering access to Florence, a city that provides you a fabulous overview of the delights of Tuscany. Encounter art, architecture, fashion and fine food, perhaps even venture to Pisa to see the world-famous Leaning Tower (own expense). Other optional shore excursions are also available.
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Day 28. Barcelona (Spain).
After nearly a full day at sea to recharge your energy, your ship docks this afternoon at our last port of call, the sunny city of Barcelona in Spain. After dinner, perhaps wander along the waterfront and check out the lively Spanish nightlife.
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Day 29. Barcelona, Disembark Ship.
The city from which Columbus set sail for the Americas, Barcelona is home to some of the world’s most fascinating and controversial 20th century art and architecture by such modernists as Gaudi, Picasso and Dali. Before flying home, soak up the lively mix of Catalan tradition and modern style of this popular destination.
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What's Included

APT Guaranteed Inclusions

• APT Cruise Director on river cruise
• Cruise staff gratuities included on river cruise – save up to $600 per couple
• Arrival transfer included
• Freedom of Choice touring at no cost in Amsterdam, Nuremberg, Passau & Vienna
• Exclusive to APT! Private music concert at the State Opera House in Budapest
• Tour of Cologne, Koblenz, Mainz, Miltenberg, Regensburg & Dürnstein
• Guided sightseeing tour of Budapest
• 12 night Mediterranean Romance cruise
• Explore Venice, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Argostoli, Santorini, Sicily, Naples, Rome, Florence and Barcelona at your own pace with optional excursions

Finest Dining

• On ms Sound of Music: all meals and quality local wines with dinner, included
• Also includes Captain’s Gala Dinner, wine tastings and theme dinners
• On ms Zuiderdam: All meals included
• In Budapest enjoy 2 Breakfasts (B) and 1 Dinner (D)

Outstanding Places to Stay

• 14 nights aboard the ms Sound of Music
• 12 nights in an outside cabin aboard Holland America Line’s ms Zuiderdam

On Board Facilities on ms Sound of Music

• Spacious Main Entertainment Lounge
• Elegant, world-class Restaurant, serving fresh local produce daily
• On-board Fitness Centre
• Massage and Beauty Salon
• Expansive Sun Deck offering superb panoramic riverside views
• Peaceful on-board Library
• Plush Bedding, daily turndown service
• Full Ensuite Bathrooms in Suites
• French Balcony Suites
• No Suites located over Engine Room
• High staff to passenger ratio

Additional Information

• Single supplement available on application
• Port charges – add A$761 per person.
• Cruise Upgrades available Contact Us for further details
• Prices are for Land Content only per person

APT Amadeus Waterways Ships

• All-weather Private French Balconies in 82% of suites
• Complimentary Bicycles on board
• Second, Lower Sun Deck
• All-weather Teak Front Deck
• Elevator to all suites
• Second Private Rear Lounge

Holland America Line – The Finest in Ocean Cruising

• On board Holland America Line’s vista ship, the ms Zuiderdam, the abundance of choice will astound you. Enjoy fine cuisine accompanied by intuitive service, stroll teak decks, relax by the pool or work out in the gym.
• Select from a range of entertainment options or use of the 24-hour room service for a quiet night in. With APT, Verandah Stateroom upgrades are available and outside cabins are guaranteed, as is the smile on your face.

Air$aver Airfares

• Enquire about our great airfares to Europe

Departure Dates and Prices

28 Day Mediterranean Cruising (Cruise Only) 08/09

28 Day Rivers & Mediterranean Cruising 08/09

**Number of travellers, per person price.

All prices are displayed in Australian Dollars (AUD)